Fuel Cost and the "paid for" DC9
Last year, in a Wall Street Q&A, NWA CEO Richard Anderson, responded to a Question regarding the old DC9 Fleet. He responded that they were paid for and that the operating cost vs a mortgaged newer plan was lower but fuel prices affected that number. GUESS WHAT! Engine and Aircraft makers are offering SCREAMING deals. I think NWA is now making it look like its mechanics are the reason (not taking concessions easily---funny no pilot or flight attendendant layoffs with the 24 parked DC9's only 900+ mechanics) for the drop.
I think revenue/capacity/fuel prices are the reason...not mechanic costs. But hey, they NWA got the opportunity..so you know they will use it!